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The Comité Maritime International (CMI) convened its prestigious colloquium and general assembly in vibrant and dynamic Rio de Janeiro, uniting authorities and legal experts to advance the unification of maritime law
A Historic Comeback
Spanning from 12 to 15 May 2026, the Comité Maritime International (CMI)’s high-profile gathering marked a pivotal occasion for international shipping law. This event represented only the third time in the organisation’s 129-year history that it has taken place in South America, signalling the long-awaited return of the global maritime community to Rio de Janeiro. The Marvellous City, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, last hosted this prestigious conference nearly half a century ago, in September 1977.
Contemporary Debates Shaping Maritime Law
Jointly organised by the CMI and the Brazilian Association of Maritime Law (ABDM), the colloquium took place in Rio’s coastal neighbourhood of Barra da Tijuca. The conference drew over 400 legal practitioners, authorities, academics, and industry executives from around the globe, including representatives from the International Group of P&I Clubs (IGP&I). They engaged in high-level debates aimed at the essential harmonisation and unification of global shipping regulations.
This year’s agenda highlighted a marked evolution in topics compared to the city’s landmark 1977 session. While discussions then were centred around traditional mechanics such as drilling vessels, charter-party terms, and the drafting of international treaties, the 2026 summit addressed pressing global shifts featuring 70 speakers and dynamic working group panels. Key topics included geopolitical instability, decarbonisation, maritime cybercrime, advancements in the offshore sector, and the revision of the 1910 Collision Convention, amongst other relevant subjects that reflect the current maritime law landscape.
Building Networking and Celebrating Rio’s Culture
Beyond the technical assemblies and the formal CMI General Assembly, the meeting offered an expansive social programme, fostering invaluable networking opportunities. Delegates participated in an opening welcome reception at the Cavalo Marinho Beach Club, a lively networking dinner for the Young CMI branch (yCMI), and a sunset reception atop Sugarloaf Mountain. The summit culminated in a splendid gala dinner at Casa das Canoas, where a live samba band and dancers delivered an authentic taste of Rio’s carnival experience, delighting the attendees with the city’s vibrant culture.
As a proud member of the ABDM and sponsor of the historic CMI Rio 2026, Proinde was represented at the event by Ricardo Martins and Isabela Martins, underscoring the company’s commitment to supporting maritime law advancements.
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